sound barrier

noun

: a sudden large increase in aerodynamic drag that occurs as the speed of an aircraft approaches the speed of sound

Examples of sound barrier in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Trees and shrubs are scenic amenities that also act as natural sound barriers for surrounding neighborhoods, and the medians are intended to encourage drivers to slow down. Frederick Melo, Twin Cities, 24 Apr. 2026 Sitting along a high-traffic tollway requires the installation of sound barriers to run along the west and north sides of the property. Joseph States, Chicago Tribune, 15 Apr. 2026 Create a sound barrier If your patio is in a noisy location, hamper the noise by incorporating plants or a water feature and creating a sound barrier, recommends David Charette, cofounder of Britto Charette in Miami. Rachel Davies, Architectural Digest, 15 Apr. 2026 The bill also states that the Connecticut Department of Transportation will evaluate the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of one to three solar installations onto exiting highway sound barriers. Stephen Underwood, Hartford Courant, 8 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for sound barrier

Word History

First Known Use

1939, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of sound barrier was in 1939

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Cite this Entry

“Sound barrier.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sound%20barrier. Accessed 3 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

sound barrier

noun
: the sudden large increase in resistance that the air offers to an aircraft nearing the speed of sound

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